21/05/2026
The traditional Chinese solar calendar divides the year into twenty-four solar terms. Grain Buds (Chinese: Xiaoman), the eighth solar term of the year, begins on May 21 and ends on June 5.
This signifies that the seeds of grains are plump but not yet ripe.
In China, the 24 solar terms were created thousands of years ago to guide agricultural production. However, the culture surrounding these terms remains relevant today, guiding people’s lives through special foods, cultural rituals, gardening, and even healthy living tips associated with each term. Let’s see what we can do during the “Xiaoman” period.
A Great Season for Eating Fish: During the Xiaoman period, the summer harvest is about to begin. There is a saying that the rains during this time are so heavy they “fill the rivers to the brim.” Due to the significant increase in rainfall, rivers and streams overflow, making the fish and shrimp exceptionally fresh and delicious. This is the perfect time to enjoy them. It is also the harvest season for fishermen.
